Designers may use texture to define and demarcate spaces, but the effect isn’t always tactile. In some cases, simple plays on lines and two-dimensional pattern brings the desired contrast or detail. This week, we’re showcasing lighting, surfaces, and furniture whose ornamental visuals set them apart, regardless of their backdrop.
Parachute, Ligne Roset
Three steel-wire elements can be mixed and matched to create this modular pendant by designer Nathan Yong. Each of Parachute’s components can be oriented facing upward and downward and combined with up to six pieces for a range of silhouettes. Black or copper lacquered metal is offered, creating an elegant industrial effect.
Hive Ottoman and Table Collection, B&B Italia
This hybrid seating and storage combines the smooth, linear planes of folded sheet metal with a beehive-inspired 3D seat cover to create a unit whose use is defined by its contrast. Designed by Atelier Oï for B&B Italia, the leather seat and metal table share a hexagonal form and can be joined as a single installation.
Lacewood, Brentano
Inspired by tree bark, the pattern of Brentano’s Lacewood drapery diverges from typical camouflage with a simple, three-color construction to enliven the design. Made entirely of fire-retardant polyester, the textile is a part of the company’s fall Affinity collection of draperies whose hues and patterns are influenced by those found in nature. Offered in eight colorways.
Mannequin Chairs, WertelOberfell
Quilted upholstery and lively patterns dress up this collection of seats by German studio WertelOberfell for Polish furniture label Iker. Three covers—triangles, diagonals, and curved lines—cover the plywood shell, which sits atop three different base types offered in wood and steel wire. (h/t Dezeen)
Patch of Sky, Fabrica
A trio of wall-mounted and table luminaires from Italian studio Fabrica links outdoor weather to indoor decor. Connected to the cloud-based server BergCloud and synced to the location of its user’s Facebook account, the Internet-connected fixtures relay local weather information as one of 11 scenarios that each display a colorful light animation. Patch of Sky takes the form of mirrored glass with a linear stone support that obscures the LED source for a luminescent, ever-changing light show.
Gorillion, David Weeks Studio
Designer David Weeks showcases his Hanno toy on repeat in a new design for Brooklyn-based Flavor Paper’s hand-screened wallpaper. A variety of colors and metallic outlines helps Gorillion’s surface reflect light for a bright and cool or warm and cozy space. The wallpaper, available in four colorways at a 6.8” repeat, launched at this year’s International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York.
MetalWorks and Infusions Blades Concepts, Armstrong Ceiling Systems
Designers looking to amplify spaces often look to the ceiling. Armstrong Ceiling Systems is growing its Blades series of vertical elements with two lines of baffles whose wave-like form draws visitors’ eyes up while also helping to extend sightlines. MetalWorks’ lightweight aluminum panels are finished to emulate cherry, mahogany, and walnut wood, while Infusions’ translucent panels’ 35 colors to help diffuse light.
